ZyXEL Introduces MWR211 3G/DSL/Cable Portable Router

A new router may not seem all that interesting, but a new 3G router? Now that's something worth investigating. ZyXEL's new MWR211 is a mobile 3G router, yet it also supports wired DSL/cable connections. Unlike many MiFi devices, this one has no Wi-Fi device limit. Most MiFis restrict usage to just five Wi-Fi devices, but this one's a new breed; it's also carrier agnostic, meaning that it isn't locked down to any single carrier.

There's also an integrated firewall, support for 802.11n transfers, and a built-in rechargeable battery that will keep things alive for 4 hours in standby, or 2 hours in use. A sister product, the MWR222, which has two Ethernet and USB ports, is a similarly-designed device that enables automated business machines, as well as business travelers, to stay connected. The MWR222 keeps users connected wherever they are, using either Ethernet or Wi-Fi connectivity, and either electrical power or the MWR's rechargeable battery. Both units support most major wireless carriers and mobile broadband adapters.

The MWR211 is currently on sale for $115, which ain't bad considering the competition -- competition that is generally limited to just one carrier or another.

ZyXEL COMMERCIALLY LAUNCHES ITS BATTERY POWERED, 3G MOBILE ROUTER, MAKING INTERNET ACCESS A PORTABLE, UNINTERRUPTABLE AND SAFE EXPERIENCE

Leading networking company partners with Blackstar Networks to accelerate distribution of mobile solutions to ensure anytime, anywhere wireless connectivity

ANAHEIM, CA – February 1, 2011 – ZyXEL Communications Inc., a leading provider of secure broadband networking, Internet connectivity and routing products, today launched the MWR211 – a battery powered, 3G mobile wireless router. This palm-sized secure device offers multiple connectivity options that include wired and 3G wireless carrier-agnostic Internet access, in addition to 11n Wi-Fi for anytime web access. To support the sales of the MWR211 and other mobile solutions, ZyXEL also announced a value-added reseller agreement with Blackstar Networks (BSN), a distribution leader for all wireless mobility products.

ZyXEL’s MWR211 can operate using either AC power or its rechargeable battery, ensuring continuous Internet access regardless of whether a power source is available. The router is highly secure with an SPI firewall / anti-DoS attack shield that is easily configured. It also supports an unlimited number of friends, family or business colleagues and features data usage alerts to avoid bill overages. A sister product, the MWR222, which has two Ethernet and USB ports, is a similarly-designed device that enables automated business machines, as well as business travelers, to stay connected. The MWR222 keeps users connected wherever they are, using either Ethernet or Wi-Fi connectivity, and either electrical power or the MWR's rechargeable battery. Both units support most major wireless carriers and mobile broadband adapters.

“The market for mobile solutions is experiencing immense growth and we are offering a variety of mobile products for our solution partners to capitalize on this need with innovative solutions,” said Dana Patrick, director of North American channels for ZyXEL. “We are excited to bring to market the MWR211 and we believe our strategic partnership with Blackstar Networks will provide valuable support and easy product access to our mobile solution partners.”

Based in Scottsdale, AZ, Blackstar Networks (BSN) has been recognized as a leading distributor of mobile technology solutions since 2006. BSN’s focus is to provide its partners with the latest and most technological advanced products within the world of technology. The company will leverage its years of expertise in mobile technology to aggressively market ZyXEL products, including the award-winning MWR (Mobile Wireless Router) series, to its 3,000+ existing reseller partners, consisting of e-tailers, IT and networking professionals, wireless carrier agents with outside and inside sales teams, local telecom resellers, and computer / IT solution providers. BSN also offers small to larger e-tailers customized provisioning, custom packaging and supply chain solutions. The partnership will simplify the mobile application delivery process by bringing together and streamlining all the necessary components, delivering reliable products to market faster for consumers to enjoy.

“ZyXEL has a reputation of providing innovative products that build value to their partners,” said Mike Murphy, Blackstar’s operations manager. “ZyXEL’s new lines of mobile 3G routers have a great price point for BSN’s customer base and applications for wireless products and services.”

ZyXEL's Partner Program offers solution providers the tools and resources necessary to create and sell enterprise-class solutions scaled to meet the needs and budgets of the mid-market.  ZyXEL’s product line includes award-winning routing products, broadband networking, Internet connectivity, network security solutions, fast and gigabit Ethernet switches, wireless networking and hospitality / MDU solutions.

Availability
The MSRP for MWR211 is $115 and it is currently available for purchase from ZyXEL authorized e-commerce retailers. Please visit www.us.zyxel.com/wheretobuy for a complete list.